Chatkal District
Area
4,608 km²
Population
28,656
Founded
1935
About
Chatkal District is located in the western mountainous part of the Jalal-Abad Region. The region is characterized by its rugged mountain landscapes, pristine nature, rich mineral deposits, and high tourism potential. The mining industry, particularly gold mining, plays a leading role in its economy. The tourism sector is rapidly developing due to the all-season mountain resort project "Chatkal Resort", eco-tourism routes, and the pilgrimage site — the Mausoleum of Prophet Idris.
History
Chatkal District was originally established on February 8, 1935, by separating from the Aksy District of the Kyrgyz ASSR. Due to its complex remote geography, the district's borders shifted multiple times: it was transferred to the Talas Region in 1944, returned to the Jalal-Abad Region in 1954, and temporarily abolished in 1956, merging with the Ala-Buka District. The district was permanently re-established within its modern boundaries in December 1990. Its administrative center is the village of Kanysh-Kiya.